We’re all breathing a sigh of a relief as we finally escape this hurricane season. But of course, many folks in Sarasota-Bradenton are still dealing with damage. And even if you were lucky this time around, we’re all stressed about the future. It’s very possible that 2024 represented the “new normal” for the size, power, rainfall, and trajectory of future storms.
So what can you do?
When it comes to your roof, it’s time to educate yourself. In order to protect and maintain your property, and to hire a trustworthy Sarasota roofing company and provide knowledgeable oversight on their work, you need to know what’s going on with your own roof.
Consider this your starter pack. These are things you should know about your roof so that you can ask educated questions and actively participate in maintenance and repair decisions.
Know Your Roof’s Components
A roof is more than a lid with some shingles stapled on top. In fact, there are a great many types of roofs, and most of them have strengths and weaknesses in our southwest Florida environment. (Read more about Bradenton roofing materials here.)
But here general overview of what you need to know about about 21st-century roofs. In other words, if you don’t know what’s happening with your roof, these are the first things to ask about.
- Roof material: You probably already know what you have here. Shingles, metal, and clay or concrete tiles are all common roofing materials in Florida.
- Roof material installation: Yes, there are different ways to install the same materials. It’s worth asking about the approach that was taken with yours, and the options you have for future installations.
- Flashing: A thin metal sheet used to protect seams, dormers (protruding windows), and other vulnerable areas. Damaged or improperly installed flashing can expose your roof to leaks.
- Ridge cap: Roofing material installed over the flashing along peaks/ridges in the roof.
- Decking/sheathing: The wood or plywood base layer of your roof. This is where a lot of water damage can occur, causing leaks as well as rotting and weak spots. Decking may or may not have to be replaced during a roof replacement.
- Underlayment: The material laid over the decking before shingles or tiles are installed. Roof underlayment is typically asphalt or synthetic. (Underlayment can be enhanced with a water shield membrane in vulnerable spots.)
- Drip edge: Special flashing on the edge or eaves of the roof. Drip edges are now required by Florida building codes.
How to Learn More About Your Roof
Of course, if you’re not sure what kind of roof is protecting your house, now is a good time to have a trustworthy expert take a look and give you the facts. Do this before you have any roof issues. You can be up-front with your request and skeptical if any unknown problems are diagnosed. After all, there are plenty of other Sarasota roofing companies if ever you need a second opinion.
Roof Knowledge is Homeowner Power
When it comes to roofing, Bradenton and Sarasota homeowners need to be empowered, educated, and proactive. With the right knowledge, you can properly keep up with roof maintenance and roof repair. Sarasota roof scams and less-than-reputable companies are only going to be more prevalent after the damage done by this year’s storms.
Protect yourself, your home, and your family. Check out LD Total Roofing Company for local, trustworthy roof inspection, maintenance, repairs, and installation.
Deckard & Company